Nollywood actress Biola Adebayo is facing widespread criticism after featuring convicted actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, on her podcast, Talk To B. The interview has sparked outrage across social media, with many accusing the actress of giving the actor a platform to downplay his conviction for sexual offences involving a minor.
During the interview, Baba Ijesha, who was sentenced to five years in prison for the indecent treatment and sexual assault of a child, claimed he was set up and misunderstood. He further suggested that aspects of the incident were related to a “movie preparation.”
The interview also referenced actress Iyabo Ojo, who publicly rejected the actor’s claims and cautioned him against dragging her children into the discussion.
Social media users quickly condemned both Baba Ijesha and Adebayo. Some called for additional legal scrutiny, while others criticized the decision to feature him on a platform known for inspiring and uplifting content.
On Twitter, one user, #oluwatobinihami, commented, “If it were this year or last year they arrested that man, so many people would say the CCTV footage was generated by AI.” Another, #TheChibuogwu, wrote, “Biola Adebayo really messed up. Ruining her goodwill for some clicks and views? She definitely thought this through and still decided to platform him.” Meanwhile, #thewriterchic added, “Biola Adebayo wants to rewrite history. People like this make us take one step forward, and three steps backward.”
Facebook users expressed similar concerns, questioning the ethics of giving Baba Ijesha a platform at a sensitive time. In a widely shared post, Marufah Muhammed wrote:
“Just a few days ago, the disturbing news about the Ozoro incident surfaced, and there was little or no reaction from Biola. Now, at such a sensitive time, you choose to release a podcast featuring a man who was convicted based on strong evidence of misconduct with a minor.
It honestly raises questions—are views and engagement now more important than the values your platform claims to stand for? Your podcast has always been seen as one that uplifts and inspires, but this move doesn’t reflect that at all.
If this situation involved your own child or someone close to you, would you still give him a platform to speak? That’s something to really think about.
I won’t lie, this hits differently coming from a woman. It’s disheartening. In trying to chase monetization, we shouldn’t lose our sense of responsibility and conscience. As a mother raising girls, this is painful to watch and very disappointing.”
The controversy underscores the ongoing tension between content creation, public accountability, and social responsibility, particularly when discussing sensitive topics involving convicted offenders.